The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has issued a strong public condemnation of a Facebook page operating under the name “PNG – Anti Corruption Blog”, after the page falsely impersonated the Commission, disseminated fraudulent statements, and unlawfully used the ICAC’s official branding. 

False Publications Released Without Authorisation 
On 28 December, the Facebook page published two fabricated statements falsely presented as official ICAC releases: 

1. “ICAC Confirms Investigation into Allegations Against Leon Hardware Limited and Related Parties for Serious Corruption and Conspiracy Offences” 

2. “To Chinese Companies Operating in Papua New Guinea: Cooperate Fully with Tax Authorities and Uphold the Law.” 

The ICAC confirms that these statements are entirely false and were issued without its knowledge, consent, or authorisation. The Commission has not announced, confirmed, or publicised any investigations in the manner claimed by the page. 

The ICAC emphasises that the publication of fraudulent statements is a serious act of deception with the potential to cause significant: 

• Reputational harm 

• Legal consequences 

• Commercial disruption 

Such actions mislead the public, violate public trust, and interfere with lawful processes. The ICAC warns that misuse of its identity is a grave matter that undermines confidence in Papua New Guinea’s anti-corruption systems. 

Misuse of Branding and Identity 
The unauthorised use of the ICAC’s name, logo, and visual identity is strictly prohibited. The Commission states that such conduct: 

• Undermines its integrity 

• Misrepresents official actions 

• Risks eroding public confidence in its mandate 

For these reasons, the ICAC has issued a clear directive to the operators of the fraudulent Facebook page to immediately cease and desist from: 

• Impersonating the ICAC in any form 

• Publishing false or misleading statements purported to be from the Commission 

• Using ICAC’s branding, logos, or identifiers without lawful authority 

The ICAC reserves the right to take legal and regulatory action against the operators of the page. This may include referral to relevant authorities to ensure accountability and prevent future misconduct. 

The public is strongly advised to: 

• Disregard any content posted by the Facebook page “PNG – Anti Corruption Blog” 

• Verify information only through ICAC’s official communication channels 

Official ICAC Channels 
For credible, accurate, and verified information, the public should refer exclusively to: 

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/icacpng  

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/106685839/admin/dashboard/  

• YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@ICAC_PNG 

• WhatsApp Channel: Independent Commission Against Corruption – ICAC PNG 

• Website: https://www.icac.gov.pg/  

The Independent Commission Against Corruption remains committed to protecting the integrity of its operations and safeguarding the public from misinformation. The Commission will act decisively against any attempt to mislead the public or misuse its authority. 

Access Official Press Statement on this matter here: https://www.icac.gov.pg/news/icac-condemns-fraudulent-impersonation-and-unathorised-use-of-its-identity/